The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has clarified why it withdrew a lawsuit filed against the Nigeria Police Force at the Federal High Court in Abuja. In a statement signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Comrade Ini Ememobong, the party said the suit was meant to challenge the police blockade of its national secretariat and demand that the property be handed over to what it described as its legitimately elected leadership.

According to the PDP, the case was assigned to Justice Joyce Abdulmalik after the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court made the posting. The party said it had earlier written to the Chief Judge, raising concerns about the perceived lack of neutrality of some judges in matters involving the PDP, including Justice Abdulmalik. Despite this complaint, the case was still assigned to her, prompting the party to formally request that she step aside from the matter.

The PDP explained that when it appeared in court, it filed a motion asking the judge to recuse herself and allow the case to be reassigned. However, the party alleged that the judge declined to rule immediately on the recusal request, choosing instead to hear it alongside the main case and deliver a ruling at the time of judgment. The PDP said this approach deepened its concerns about fairness and impartiality, especially after it had openly stated its lack of confidence in the judge handling the case.

As a result, the party said it exercised its legal right to withdraw the suit within the timeframe allowed by court rules. The PDP, however, expressed displeasure that the court dismissed the case rather than striking it out after the notice of discontinuance was filed. While reaffirming its respect for the judiciary, the party urged judges to remain neutral and avoid any actions that could give the impression of political influence, warning that justice and politics must remain clearly separated.